What is the minimum MQM for Delta?

What is the minimum MQM for Delta?

The minimum MQM (Medallion Qualification Miles) requirement for Delta Airlines varies depending on the frequent flyer status level. Delta Airlines offers a loyalty program called SkyMiles, where members earn MQMs based on the distance flown and the fare class of the ticket purchased. MQMs are used to determine the Medallion status level, which provides additional benefits and perks to frequent flyers.

To qualify for Silver Medallion status, the lowest tier in the Delta SkyMiles program, members need to earn a minimum of 25,000 MQMs or fly 30 segments with Delta or its partner airlines in a calendar year. Silver Medallion members receive benefits such as unlimited complimentary upgrades, waived baggage fees, priority boarding, and access to preferred seating.

For Gold Medallion status, the second tier in the SkyMiles program, members need to earn a minimum of 50,000 MQMs or fly 60 segments in a calendar year. Gold Medallion members enjoy additional benefits such as higher upgrade priority, complimentary access to Delta Comfort+ seating, and access to Sky Team lounge when traveling internationally.

Moving up to the Platinum Medallion status, members need to earn a minimum of 75,000 MQMs or fly 100 segments in a calendar year. Platinum Medallion members receive enhanced benefits including the highest upgrade priority, complimentary access to Delta Comfort+, access to Sky Priority lanes for expedited security and boarding, and additional baggage allowances.

Finally, the highest tier in the SkyMiles program is the Diamond Medallion status. To reach this level, members need to earn a minimum of 125,000 MQMs or fly 140 segments in a calendar year. Diamond Medallion members enjoy exclusive privileges like Delta One/First Class upgrades on award tickets, Sky Team Elite Plus status, access to VIP lounges worldwide, waived fees for same-day flight changes, and a dedicated Delta Elite Reservations line.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I earn MQMs?

To earn MQMs, you need to fly with Delta or its partner airlines and credit the flight miles to your SkyMiles account. The number of MQMs earned is determined by the distance flown and the fare class of your ticket. Business class and first class tickets typically earn more MQMs than economy tickets.

2. Do MQMs expire?

MQMs earned in one calendar year count towards obtaining or maintaining Medallion status for that year, but they reset on January 1st of the following year. It’s important to earn the necessary MQMs each year to maintain or upgrade your Medallion status.

3. Can I earn MQMs on partner airlines?

Yes, you can earn MQMs on eligible flights operated by Delta’s partner airlines. Make sure to provide your SkyMiles number when making the reservation or during check-in to ensure you receive credit for the flight.

4. Can I earn MQMs through credit card spending?

Delta offers co-branded credit cards that allow cardholders to earn MQMs through spending. These cards often have bonus offers and benefits, including MQMs awarded for reaching certain spending thresholds.

5. Can I purchase MQMs?

Delta offers the option to purchase MQMs to help members reach the required thresholds for Medallion status. However, this is typically an expensive option and is not recommended unless necessary.

6. Can MQMs be transferred to another person?

MQMs are not transferable between SkyMiles accounts. They can only be earned by the individual member who flies or meets other eligible criteria.

7. Do MQMs count towards award tickets?

MQMs are separate from redeemable miles and do not count towards award tickets. They are used solely for earning and maintaining Medallion status.

8. Can I earn MQMs on all Delta flights?

Most Delta flights qualify for earning MQMs, but some deeply discounted tickets may earn reduced MQMs or none at all. It’s important to check the fare class and terms and conditions of your ticket to ensure MQMs will be earned.

9. Can I earn MQMs on flights booked through third-party websites?

As long as the flight is operated by Delta or one of their partner airlines, you should be able to earn MQMs regardless of where you booked the ticket. However, make sure to enter your SkyMiles number during the reservation process to ensure proper credit.

10. Do MQMs count towards achieving Delta Million Miler status?

MQMs do count towards achieving Delta Million Miler status, which provides lifetime benefits based on the total number of miles flown with Delta and its partner airlines.

11. Can I earn MQMs on codeshare flights?

Yes, you can earn MQMs on codeshare flights as long as the operating carrier is a Delta partner airline and the flight is eligible for MQM accrual.

12. How long does it take for MQMs to appear in my SkyMiles account?

Usually, MQMs are credited to your SkyMiles account within a few days after completing the eligible flight. However, it may take up to a week for the miles to appear in your account. If there seems to be a delay, you can contact Delta’s customer service for assistance.